‘Dialogue’ must be at heart of China-Australia ties, Albanese tells Xi

Anthony Albanese (left) and Xi Jinping met in Beijing to focus on economic co-operation over regional rivalry. Photo / Getty Images

Anthony Albanese and Xi Jinping have met in Beijing, kicking off high-level talks as Australia and China strive to focus on economic co-operation rather than their increasingly militaristic regional rivalry.

The Chinese President, smiling, greeted his Australian guest in the East Hall – one of the many spacious ornate chambers in the Great Hall of the People.

With the Australian and Chinese national flags adorning the walls, it was a welcome befitting the charm offensive waged on the Australian Prime Minister since landing over the weekend.

The leaders were seated opposite a long, polished table, Xi praising Albanese for fostering stronger ties.

He pointed to past meetings as “in-depth discussions on the strategic, overarching issues critical to the direction of China-Australia relations”.

“And we’ve reached many common understandings with efforts from both sides,” Xi said.

Xi praised Albanese for fostering stronger ties and emphasised the importance of equal treatment and mutual co-operation. Photo / Getty Images

“The most important thing we can learn from this is ... a commitment to equal treatment, to seeking common ground while sharing differences, pursuing mutually beneficial co-operation, for our countries and peoples.”

Albanese was keen to echo his host.

“It is my pleasure to meet with you again here today,” he said, adding that he “very much” appreciated the Chinese hospitality.

“I note your comments in your opening remarks about seeking common ground while sharing differences,” he said.

“That approach has indeed produced very positive benefits for both Australia and for China.”

Albanese has been careful not to pre-empt how his meeting with the world’s second-most powerful leader would go.

He had a cruisy first leg of his state visit, spruiking Australia’s economic offerings and being wooed by Chinese officials and business leaders in the glitzy beauty of central Shanghai.

But differences remain and both sides have indicated they will raise them, despite efforts to keep things positive.

Albanese said he was looking forward to a “productive conversation”.

“Australia values our relationship with China, and we’ll continue to approach it in a calm and consistent manner, guided by our national interest,” he said.

“It is in our national interest, and indeed in the interest of the region as well.

“It is important that we have these direct discussions on issues that matter to us, and to the stability and prosperity of our region.

“As you and I have agreed previously, dialogue needs to be at the centre of our relationship, and I welcome the opportunity to set out Australia’s views and interests and our thinking on how we can maintain peace, security, stability and prosperity in our region.”